Sun Valley Elementary School is one of six public elementary schools in the San Rafael City Schools District. At the end of Sun Valley, in San Rafael, the school boasts playgrounds and open space with the back of the school opening up onto a ridge. Sun Valley is considered to be one of the best elementary schools in San Rafael and has been recognized as a California Distinguished School. The school has an Academic Performance Index of 896 out of 1,000. The principal, Julie Harris, has emphasized a focus on creativity and allowing the students to grow emotionally as well as intellectually. The school also has an active parent community and parent-teacher organization.